Bagel with Cream Cheese
A classic, comforting breakfast featuring a warm, chewy homemade bagel generously spread with smooth cream cheese.
Ingredients
- •4 plain or everything bagels
- •8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- •1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
- •1 pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
- •4 thin slices of red onion (optional)
- •8 slices of kosher smoked salmon or lox (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- 2
Slice each bagel horizontally in half.
- 3
Place the bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet and toast them for 5 to 7 minutes until warm and lightly golden.
- 4
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped dill, salt, and pepper if desired.
- 5
Generously spread the cream cheese mixture onto each warm bagel half.
- 6
Top with smoked salmon and red onion slices if you prefer a loaded savory version, then serve immediately.
💡 Chef tips
- For the best texture, always slice and toast your bagels just before serving so the exterior remains crisp and the inside soft.
- You can use flavored cream cheese such as chive or vegetable spread as a shortcut.
- Store leftover bagels in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them sliced for quick toasting later.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished dish should feature a delightfully crisp-chewy bagel coated in a rich, velvety layer of cool cream cheese that melts slightly against the warm bread.